Castlewood Canyon State Park: A Natural and Historical Escape
Discover scenic trails, historical ruins, and diverse wildlife at Castlewood Canyon State Park, a Front Range gem near Denver and Colorado Springs.
Castlewood Canyon State Park, near Franktown, Colorado, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Explore diverse trails, dramatic canyon walls, and the remnants of the ill-fated Castlewood Dam, which dramatically burst in 1933, sending a flood towards Denver.
A brief summary to Castlewood Canyon State Park
- 2989 CO-83, Franktown, Colorado, 80116, US
- +1303-688-5242
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months, as the trails can be dry and exposed.
- Be aware of rattlesnakes, which are common in the park during the summer. Keep dogs on a leash and stay on marked trails.
- A daily vehicle pass or a Colorado State Parks pass is required for entry.
- Visit the Castlewood Canyon Visitor Center to learn more about the park's history, geology, and wildlife.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the canyon can change rapidly.
Getting There
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Driving
From Denver, take I-25 south to Castle Rock. Exit onto Founders Parkway heading east, which turns into Highway 86. Continue east on Highway 86 for approximately 7.5 miles to Castlewood Canyon Road, then turn right (south). Follow Castlewood Canyon Road to the park's west entrance or continue on Highway 83 to the main (east) entrance. Parking is available at both entrances. A daily vehicle pass costs $10, payable at self-service stations, or a Colorado State Parks pass is required.
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Public Transport
While there isn't direct public transportation to Castlewood Canyon State Park, you can take a bus or light rail to a nearby city like Castle Rock and then use a taxi or rideshare service to complete your journey to the park. From Castle Rock, a taxi or rideshare to the park's entrance will cost approximately $20-$30.
Discover more about Castlewood Canyon State Park
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